THE Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) and Democratic Alliance (DA) service delivery pact agreement has begun bearing fruit.
The DA obtained its first deputy mayor position under this coalition agreement of putting service delivery first in the City of uMhlathuze, which is run by the IFP.
Councillor Christo Botha has filled the City of uMhlathuze deputy mayor's position after it was left vacant by the Economic Freedom Fighters, Nkululeko Ngubane, who resigned earlier in 2023.
Botha was installed into the position on Thursday, 10 August, at a full council sitting held at the municipal building in Richards Bay, northern KZN.
His inauguration was followed by a media briefing to give an update on the two parties' working relationship in the province.
The party said this service delivery pact agreement gives the ruling party sleepless nights because it shows stability.
The media briefing was attended by leaders of the IFP, including provincial chairman Thami Ntuli, IFP secretary general Siphosethu Ngcobo and City of uMhlathuze Mayor Xolani Ngwezi.
Thami Ntuli said this significant appointment marks a moment of transition and collaboration, and it is an honour to share this remarkable occasion.
"This inauguration follows the IFP's decision to extend an offer to the DA to assume the position of deputy mayor to bring about a strong and stable government in uMhlathuze," said Ntuli.
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"This strategic collaboration between both parties underscores the spirit of unity and dedication to serving our community above all else."
DA leader Francois Rodgers said that the DA and IFP are not only content but pleased with the partnership that unites the IFP, DA, Freedom Front Plus, NFP, and ACDP in the municipality's administration.
Newly elected deputy mayor Christo Botha said he looks forward to serving the residents of uMhlathuze on an entirely new level.
City Mayor Xolani Ngwezi said the inclusive government is the way to go, and it didn't start today but dates back.
"There is lots of damage that the previous administration left. Our priority is service delivery," said Ngwezi.
